In a heartfelt commemoration of the brave soldiers who participated in the historic D-Day landings 80 years ago, King Charles and Queen Camilla visited the Normandy Memorial in England on Thursday.
The royal couple stood alongside veterans, paying homage to the courage and sacrifices of the Allied Forces. For many of the 41 surviving veterans present, some of whom had crossed the English Channel for the last time, it was a poignant moment of reflection. Among them, the eldest—who had just turned 103—stood resolute, with some even rising from wheelchairs to honor their fallen comrades.
King Charles opened the ceremony with a moving tribute, applauding the unwavering bravery of those who faced unimaginable trials during the battle. His words resonated deeply with attendees, including members of the royal family, many of whom were visibly emotional. The King emphasized how these soldiers saved future generations from a life of fear and tyranny.
One particularly emotional moment came during a memorial for 100-year-old veteran Arthur Oborn, whose harrowing story captivated the 2,000 attendees at the ceremony in Normandy, France. Standing with a trembling voice, Arthur recounted his D-Day experiences, including the day his life was saved by his friend Walter "Gummy" Gumson. Arthur described landing on a beach that had turned into a scene of devastation, with blood-stained sands and skies darkened by planes and bombs.
Three days after surviving the initial assault, Arthur was shot in the lung by a sniper, leaving part of the bullet lodged in his body. He credited Gummy's quick thinking for his survival, recalling how his friend rushed him to a field hospital, saving his life. Tragically, Arthur lost 27 friends that day and never saw Gummy again. Holding a cane and a white rose gifted by a French boy, Arthur expressed his eternal gratitude to his friend, stating, "I never underestimated his sacrifice and will always remember him."
In a touching gesture, Arthur handed his white rose to Queen Camilla, symbolizing his respect for the royal family. Veterans seated near the King received warm greetings from British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and French President Emmanuel Macron. Some were wrapped in red blankets to keep warm, while others visibly struggled with grief, their tears revealing the weight of their memories.
In his closing remarks, King Charles, dressed in the uniform of the Commander of the Parachute Regiment, assured the veterans, “As we stand on this sacred ground with your friends and neighbors, let us promise to honor your legacy by living up to your example.” His words underscored the solemn commitment to never forget the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom in one of history’s bloodiest battles.
